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This traditional german apple cake recipe, known as Apfelkuchen, is one of the most beloved desserts in Germany. Furthermore, it is the cake I grew up with in the Black Forest — my grandfather served it in his café, still warm from the oven, dusted with cinnamon sugar. In fact, some guests came back to his café just for this cake. Additionally, this version uses ground almonds in the batter which gives it an extra depth that most recipes skip. This is the real Apfelkuchen — simple, honest, and incredibly good.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

For the best results you need a good → 9-inch springform pan — essential for easy release and the classic round shape. Additionally, a → hand mixer or stand mixer makes beating the butter and sugar much easier. For the apple slices an → apple corer and slicer saves a lot of time.

Traditional German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)

Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 40 minutes Total time: 55 minutes
Print Recipe
Servings: 10 Slices
Course: Cake
Cuisine: Germany
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g 1 cup butter, softened
  • 180 g ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 300 g 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 100 g 1 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
  • 125 ml ½ cup milk
  • 900 g 2 lb tart apples, about 4-5 apples
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Cinnamon sugar for topping

Method
 

  1. Prepare the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the apples. Peel, core and slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Make the batter. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition.
  4. Add dry ingredients. In a separate bowl combine flour, baking powder, ground almonds and salt. Slowly mix into the batter alternating with the milk.
  5. Spread the batter. Spread evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Add the apples. Arrange the apple slices on top and gently press them into the batter. Sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
  7. Bake. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
  8. Serve. Let cool slightly and serve warm — dusted with extra cinnamon sugar if desired.

Notes

Ground almonds in the batter give this cake an extra depth of flavor that most recipes skip — do not leave them out! For extra crunch add sliced almonds on top before baking. The cake tastes wonderful still warm from the oven. It keeps well for 2-3 days at room temperature.

What to serve with Apfelkuchen

This german apple cake recipe is the perfect companion to afternoon coffee — Kaffeeklatsch is a beloved German tradition. Furthermore, serve it warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a special treat. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it a wonderful dessert. In Germany, Apfelkuchen is enjoyed all year round — but it is especially wonderful in autumn when fresh apples are in season.

The Kaffeeklatsch Tradition

In Germany, afternoon coffee with cake is a cherished tradition. Furthermore, every Sunday afternoon German families gather for Kaffee und Kuchen — coffee and cake. Additionally, Apfelkuchen is one of the most popular cakes for this occasion. In short, this recipe is not just a cake — it is a piece of German culture.

Looking for more traditional German baking? Browse all my German Cakes & Pastries.

The Apfelkuchen is one of the most traditional cakes in German baking culture.